I became an uncle for the first time this morning, and I'm still kinda over the moon about the whole thing; so, I'm going to open something big and rich in celebration. Thinking Bell's Expedition Stout . . .

Started off with a Thunderhop in honor of those who died in Pearl Harbor on this date 72 years ago...and now on to one of my favorites in (early) celebration of my birthday tomorrow, love me some Pliney!

Watching my Lakers as I drink the last of the 4 Pliny's I picked up last week. I'm already sad enough this is my last one bottle. A Lakers loss won't help. If we win, my next beer is Backwoods Bastard. If we lose, I'm drinking Ten Fidy

My first one of these of the season. I haven't managed to cross the border yet to pick some up, so when Rutager sent me one as an extra, it was truly awesome. Enjoying it in celebration of finding out that I got an interview with an organization I've wanted to work with for a while. Crossing fingers for Tuesday, cheers!

Absolutely the best panettone I have EVER had! Enjoying this with Terrapin Moo Hoo! And needless to say it pairs well with the Christmas taste!

Any other lovers of Italian delights? Would love to hear from you about panettone. I cannot imagine any would not love this bread! It is REALLY elegant and light! Great for breakfast or dessert. This particular one is made with Birrificio del Ducato Krampus! MMM

Cheers all and let the Yuletide begin!

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Have to say that I've only ever had panettone in Brazil, but I enjoyed it just fine. Italian food is generally terrible in Brazil, but they do baked goods well (for whatever reason—who opens a bakery in a tropical country?) so I imagine that what I had was a decent example of the "real" thing.